On this weblog publish, I’ll take you on a pleasant journey by way of the perfect espresso outlets and cafes in Nairobi, the place you’ll be able to benefit from the most interesting brews, delectable bites, and a style of town’s heat hospitality. These cafes supply a singular mix of experiences, flavors, and aromas which can be positive to fulfill your caffeine cravings.
Nairobi, the vigorous capital metropolis of Kenya, is just not solely famend for its nightlife spots and tourist attractions but in addition its thriving cafe tradition. As a proud Kenyan who calls town house, I’ve had the pleasure of exploring its espresso scene extensively.
On this information, you’ll discover my favourite Nairobi cafes for date nights, quiet vibes, beans to remove, tranquil ambiance, pleasant workers, and extra. So, when you’re trying to find the perfect espresso in Nairobi, a relaxed place to work from, or just a comfortable spot to unwind, learn on.
Finest Cafes and Espresso Retailers in Nairobi
To offer you concepts of the place to pattern the distinct and complicated Kenyan espresso, I’ve ready this checklist of my favourite cafes in Nairobi. It’s based mostly on the standard of the espresso, ambiance, service, facilities, and placement.
I’ve been to extra cafes within the metropolis, however I’ve narrowed this checklist right down to the highest 15 based mostly on the above standards and my opinion. Different prospects have additionally extremely rated these cafes on evaluate web sites similar to Google and TripAdvisor.
1. Java Home (Finest Cafe and Espresso Store in Nairobi General)
Kicking off this checklist of the perfect espresso outlets in Nairobi is Java Home, an exquisite cafe with branches throughout town. This espresso joint options all the pieces you must work, chill out, join, and dine.
All their retailers are completely embellished with native artwork items, and the ambiance is gorgeous. With their high-speed WiFi and funky music, you’ll be able to arrive within the morning and work your manner by way of the day. All whereas being served the perfect Kenyan espresso, tasty snacks, and scrumptious meals from their intensive menu.
I’ve typically visited Java Home, and their providers by no means disappoint. They’ve attentive, pleasant workers who at all times attempt to make you are feeling at house. My favourite branches are Kimathi Road (for breakfast) and Reinsurance Plaza (for burgers).
Java Home Data
Deal with: Along Kimathi Street, next to Kilimanjaro Restaurant
Cellphone: +254 725 412 164
Working Hours: Day by day, from 7 am to 10 pm
Should-Attempt Objects: Burgers, home espresso, full Java breakfast. Click here to view the full menu.
Common Value: $2-$4 per latte, $9-$29 per predominant, $4-$8 for desserts
Web site: javahouseafrica.com
2. Artcaffé (Finest for a Number of Coffees and Pastries)
Subsequent on my checklist of distinctive cafes in Nairobi is Artcaffé. Along with nice individuals, meals, pastries, and drinks, this espresso store and bakery is concerning the ambiance. Its distinctive design, distinct fashion, and well-decorated sitting areas give it a captivating vibe that matches the vitality in Nairobi Metropolis.
Similar to Java Home, ArtCaffé has a number of retailers within the Nairobi metropolis. My favourite is the Galleria Procuring Mall department, which is near wildlife spots within the metropolis. Right here, you’ll be able to cease and chill out, take pleasure in a cup of espresso, join with buddies, or take lunch whereas in your method to Giraffe Center, Bomas of Kenya, or the Elephant Nursery.
If you happen to’re a digital nomad questioning which ArtCaffé would go well with you finest, I like to recommend the Kimathi Street branch. It’s fantastically embellished and options high-speed WiFi, a spacious indoor sitting space, and a conducive ambiance. Right here, you’ll be able to work in your laptop with minimal disturbance.
Artcaffé Data
Deal with: At Galleria Shopping Mall, off Langata Road
Cellphone: +254 709 828 282
Working Hours: Day by day, from 6:30 am to 11 pm
Should-Attempt Objects: Latte, carrot cake, fried hen sandwich. Click here to view the full menu.
Common Value: $2-$4 per latte, $9-$17 per predominant, $3-$8 for desserts
Web site: artcaffe.co.ke
3. Cafe Deli (Finest for Working, Burgers, and Lattes)
Cafe Deli is a well-known delicatessen chain in Nairobi, boasting three distinguished retailers throughout town. Though it caters to a various clientele, the espresso store is hottest amongst {couples} looking for a romantic ambiance and digital nomads trying to find a productive workspace.
Among the many highlights of Cafe Deli are its delectable burgers, irresistible desserts and pastries, and expertly brewed espresso, making it a culinary haven for meals lovers. The nice and cozy and welcoming workers add to the general appeal, making certain a pleasant meals expertise.
My private favourite, the Tumaini department, stands out with its fantastically embellished inside, cozy seats, and excellent lighting. Furthermore, the high-speed and dependable WiFi ensures that distant work and leisurely searching are a breeze, making Cafe Deli the perfect vacation spot for a memorable outing – for work, enjoyable, and meals.
Cafe Deli & Delicatessen Data
Deal with: Tumaini House, off Moi Avenue
Cellphone: +254 710 465 291
Working Hours: Day by day, from 6:30 am to 10 pm
Should-Attempt Objects: Double mocha, beef burgers, banana bread. Click here to view the full menu.
Common Value: $3-$4 per latte, $8-$28 per predominant, $3-$7 for desserts
Web site: cafedeli.co.ke
4. Palette Cafe (One of many Finest Cafes to Work From in Nairobi)
Nestled in Nairobi’s vibrant Lavington neighborhood, Palette Cafe is greater than only a espresso spot; it’s a sanctuary of inclusivity, magnificence, and serenity. This exceptional cafe goes past serving excellent espresso and engaging meals by empowering differently-abled people, and offering them with coaching and employment alternatives within the meals service business.
Step inside and uncover a singular mix of productiveness and leisure. The cafe boasts a spacious co-working space, tailored for freelancers and distant employees looking for the perfect atmosphere to unleash their creativity and focus.
However Palette provides greater than only a workspace and your favourite cup – it’s a multifaceted gem. With an artwork studio, yoga middle, and social hub below its roof, it’s the last word backyard cafe in Nairobi. So, whether or not you’re right here to work, join with like-minded people, unwind, savor Kenyan espresso, or have a blast, Palette Cafe is the place to be.
Palette Cafe Data
Deal with: Opposite Lavington Mall, along James Gichuru Road
Cellphone: +254 741 851 685
Working Hours: Day by day, from 7:30 am to six:30 pm
Should-Attempt Objects: Salads, quite a lot of coffees and teas. Click here to view the full menu.
Common Value: $2-$5 per latte, $6-$12 per predominant, $1-$3 for desserts
Web site: palletcafe.co.ke
5. Join Espresso Roasters (Finest for Brewed Espresso and Beans)
Join Espresso is known for its dedication to serving Nairobi’s most interesting espresso. It prides itself on crafting espresso from freshly roasted beans, persistently making certain probably the most pure of drinks. It additionally lets prospects hint the espresso’s supply and perceive the manufacturing course of, offering a premium and healthful espresso expertise.
This roastery has established itself as considered one of Nairobi’s high espresso brewers and sellers, with 4 strategically situated cafes and outlets in Riverside Drive, Gigiri Complex, Sanlam Towers, and Hurlingham. The Riverside Drive outlet is the preferred alternative amongst espresso lovers.
Past their distinctive brewed espresso choice, patrons can take pleasure in varied menu choices, together with omelets, waffles, wraps, donuts, and delectable pastries. Join isn’t merely a espresso vacation spot; it’s an entire culinary expertise catering to the various tastes of its cherished prospects.
Join Espresso Roasters Data
Deal with: At Riverfront building, Off 14th Riverside Drive
Cellphone: +254 708 790 480
Working Hours: 8 am-7 pm (Monday-Saturday), 8 am-7 pm (Sunday)
Should-Attempt Objects: Thai beef wraps, blueberry waffle, Juliet mix roasted beans. Click here to view the full menu.
Common Value: $2-$5 for espresso, $6-$10 per predominant, $2-$4 for desserts
Web site: connectcoffee.net
6. Spring Valley Espresso (Finest for Numerous Flavors of Kenyan Espresso)
I completely love Spring Valley cafes. Their espresso is unimaginable and is roasted by hand with a lot love. The workers is at all times pleasant and welcoming, making each go to a pleasure. Whereas they don’t supply a full meals menu, their espresso, scorching chocolate, and snacks hit the spot.
Spring Valley Espresso has varied cafes throughout Nairobi, together with Karen, Wilson Airport, Village Market, and Westgate Mall. I typically go to their Spring Valley Procuring Middle location, which is small and stress-free – excellent for having fun with a cup whereas studying a e book or grabbing a takeaway.
Moreover their lovely cafes, in addition they promote mocha bombs and occasional luggage (beans and floor). Their espresso choice contains Espresso, Elgon, and Connoisseur (my favourite, sourced from the central highlands of Kenya).
Spring Valley Espresso Cafe Data
Deal with: At Spring Valley Shopping Center, along Lower Kabete Road
Cellphone: +254 708 709 709
Working Hours: Day by day, from 7 am to 9 pm
Should-Attempt Objects: Connoisseur espresso beans, snacks, mocha bombs
Common Value: $1-$4 per espresso cup, $3-$9 for snacks
Web site: springvalleycoffee.com
7. Tin Roof Café (Finest for Recent Air, Pretty Environment, and Espresso)
Tin Roof Café serves regionally roasted espresso, wholesome meals, juicy burgers, and recent wraps and sandwiches. It’s a peaceable escape from the busy metropolis and buying malls, with a captivating setting and a heat, cozy ambiance. The cafe’s outside, backyard eating space is a breath of recent air, they usually actually have a youngsters’ playground for a family-friendly expertise.
If you go to Tin Roof Café in Karen, you’ll discover a crew of pleasant workers able to make your expertise gratifying. Whether or not you need to chill out, hang around with buddies, or get by way of some work, they provide indoor and patio seating to cater to your wants. With its rustic and quaint ambiance, this cafe is ideal for a serene espresso break or an off-the-cuff meal in Nairobi.
Tin Roof Café Data
Deal with: At The House of Treasures along Dagoretti Road in Karen
Cellphone: +254 748 259 066
Working Hours: Day by day, from 8 am to five:30 pm
Should-Attempt Objects: Chai latte, superfood salad, fajita burger. Click here to view the full menu.
Common Value: $2-$4 for espresso, $8-$14 per predominant, $3-$5 for desserts
Web site: tinroof.cafe
8. Lava Latte (Finest for Breakfast and Working)
This cafe in Nairobi is filled with life, bringing collectively varied flavors and a heat ambiance. Whether or not you’re on the lookout for freshly brewed espresso, scrumptious meals, or a pleasant place to hang around, Lava Latte provides an incredible expertise that leaves you craving extra.
Along with providing culinary delights, Lava Latte is a spot to attach for artwork lovers. Right here, you’ll discover cozy, lovely artworks both created by their patrons or sourced regionally. The cafe additionally holds varied occasions, similar to “paint and sip,” all through the week.
If you happen to’re trying to get some work completed, the cafe supplies a quiet atmosphere to be productive whereas having fun with the fantastic thing about nature. It options free WiFi, charging socket retailers, and comfy areas to arrange your laptop computer.
Lava Latte Data
Deal with: 209 Statehouse Road
Cellphone: +254 757 119 064
Working Hours: Day by day, from 7:30 am to 9 pm
Should-Attempt Objects: Home espresso, caramel latte, Nairobi breakfast. Click here to view the full menu.
Common Value: $3-$5 for espresso, $6-$11 per predominant, $3-$6 for desserts
Web site: lavalatte.com
9. The River Café (Finest Espresso Store in Nairobi for Nature Lovers)
Located inside Karura Forest, The River Café is a perfect vacation spot for people who respect nature, take pleasure in biking, or are passionate about mountain climbing. This outside espresso store and restaurant seamlessly mix journey, delectable delicacies, and tranquility.
Notably, its large open house with excessive ceilings additionally earns its recognition as considered one of Nairobi’s high cafes, providing picturesque views.
Other than excellent espresso and tea choices, their menu boasts an array of pleasant meals, pastries, and desserts. I extremely advocate indulging of their all-day breakfast that includes the right mixture of steak and eggs. This dish features a pan-fried beef fillet, roast potatoes, two eggs ready to your liking, and a grilled tomato.
The River Café Data
Deal with: At Karura Forest along Limuru Road
Cellphone: +254 725 969 891
Working Hours: Day by day, from 7:30 am to six:30 pm
Should-Attempt Objects: Cappuccino, all-day breakfast, bacon cheeseburger. Click here to view the full menu.
Common Value: $2-$4 per latte, $6-$10 per predominant, $3 for desserts
Web site: therivercafekenya.com
10. Ethos Natural Cafe (One of many Finest Vegan Espresso Retailers in Westlands)
Ethos is a captivating little cafe in Westlands, Nairobi, providing a pleasant ambiance and farm-fresh dishes. As an area, it’s simply considered one of my favourite espresso outlets within the space. The inside is adorned with charming wall artwork items, creating a shocking ambiance excellent for having fun with drinks, stress-free, and eating.
What actually distinguishes Ethos is its unwavering dedication to sustainability and eco-friendly practices, making it the best choice for environmentally aware people.
Because it’s a vegan restaurant, its menu boasts scrumptious plant-based choices such because the Kama Kuku nuggets and banana porridge (enhanced with nuts and cinnamon). Moreover, they provide espresso lovers like me an impressive collection of Kenyan varieties, together with AA and Arabica.
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Ethos Natural Cafe Data
Deal with: At the Ananas Centre, opposite Sarit Centre Mall
Cellphone: +254 111 809 200
Working Hours: Day by day, from 9 am to 9 pm
Should-Attempt Objects: Kama Kuku burger, banana porridge, Kiambu AA filter espresso. Click here to view the full menu.
Common Value: $2-$4 per espresso, $6-$11 per predominant
Web site: ethos.co.ke
11. Wasp and Sprout (Finest for Espresso and Homewares)
Wasp and Sprout is a comfortable, family-owned espresso store in Nairobi’s upscale Loresho neighborhood. It’s a restaurant and distinctive retailer providing regionally crafted furnishings and homewares. Inside, you’ll discover a fantastically embellished house with rustic tables, plant vases, and comfortable cushions made with lovely ankara material, making it the right spot to chill out with buddies or take pleasure in a espresso whereas studying a e book.
With a dedication to sourcing recent, native components, Wasp and Sprout ensures that each chunk and sip is a memorable expertise. So, whether or not you’re on the lookout for a pleasant place to meet up with buddies or looking for inspiration on your house, this cafe and retail store provides a perfect ambiance for espresso and design lovers.
Wasp and Sprout Data
Deal with: At the old Loresho shopping center, along Loresho Grove
Cellphone: +254 799 873 422
Working Hours: 8 am-4 pm (Monday-Thursday), 8 am till late (Friday), 8 am-5 pm (Saturday-Sunday)
Should-Attempt Objects: French press espresso, sprout burger, chilaquiles. Click here to view the full menu.
Common Value: $2-$4 per espresso, $7-$13 per predominant, $3-$5 for desserts
Web site: waspandsprout.com
12. Kista Caffè (One of many Finest Espresso Retailers in Nairobi CBD)
Kista is likely one of the finest espresso locations in Nairobi CBD. It has three spots within the metropolis middle, together with Kenyatta Avenue, Avenue Hospital, and Banda Road (my favourite). Right here, you’ll be able to take pleasure in a cup of freshly brewed cappuccino or a plate of scrumptious meals whereas catching up with buddies or colleagues.
The cafe is a real gem with an incredible ambiance that I am keen on. Its inside design is improbable, creating a comfortable and welcoming ambiance. The exemplary and environment friendly service additionally units this cafe aside; the workers are extremely pleasant and courteous, making each go to a pleasant expertise.
Kista is greater than only a excellent place to seize a cup of espresso. It’s additionally among the best cafes to work from in Nairobi, with a improbable atmosphere for productiveness.
Kista Caffè Data
Deal with: Along Banda Sreet, Nairobi
Cellphone: +254 700 207 272
Working Hours: Day by day, from 6:30 am to 10 pm
Should-Attempt Objects: Cappuccino, hen Monalisa burger, Kista breakfast. Click here to view the full menu.
Common Value: $2-$5 for espresso, $7-$15 per predominant, $3-$5 for desserts
Web site: kistacaffe.com
13. Geco Café (Finest for Artwork, Meals, and Dwell Music)
Nairobi cafes are recognized for his or her distinctive mix of tradition and experiences, and Geco Café isn’t any exception. This vibrant cafe is greater than only a espresso store. It’s a spot the place meals, style, artwork, and music mix to create a vigorous ambiance that embodies good vibes and creativity.
It provides a various menu with varied drinks, together with expertly ready espresso. Their culinary experience extends past drinks to meals, with a menu that contains a vary of dishes from mouthwatering pizzas, together with classics like pepperoni and Hawaiian, to completely cooked steaks that cater to completely different tastes.
One other standout function of Geco Café is its position as a house for reside music. They usually host high artists for reside band performances, including a melodic contact to your expertise – no matter your musical preferences. Geco additionally has an on-site automotive wash and storage for added comfort, making it a real one-stop vacation spot.
Geco Café Data
Deal with: Lavington, along Mbaazi Road
Cellphone: +254 792 489 449
Working Hours: Day by day, from 8 am to 11 pm
Should-Attempt Objects: Latte, cocktails, beef rump steak. Click here to view the full menu.
Common Value: $2-$5 for espresso, $6-$11 per predominant, $3-$7 for cocktails
Web site: gecotribe.com
14. Kesh Kesh Roastery & Café (Finest for Working and Meals)
Nestled within the Kilimani neighborhood, Kesh Kesh Roastery & Café is likely one of the finest cafes and occasional outlets in Nairobi. Right here, you’ll be able to savor beautiful dishes expertly complemented by brewed espresso, all throughout the embrace of its inviting, lovely ambiance.
Whether or not you like cozy indoor seating or the al fresco appeal of an outside space, Kesh Kesh caters to numerous eating preferences. It’s very best for these looking for an intimate meal with family members and guests can even study the specialty espresso course of from their roastery or purchase some Eritrean beans to brew at house.
Moreover its espresso and meals, the café goes the additional mile by providing a conducive atmosphere for work. Digital nomads and freelancers can take pleasure in complimentary WiFi, making it a perfect spot to arrange your workstation.
Kesh Kesh Roastery & Café Data
Deal with: At Chaka Apartments, along Chaka Road
Cellphone: +254 724 131 700
Working Hours: Day by day, from 7 am to 10 pm
Should-Attempt Objects: Filter espresso, Kesh breakfast, backyard salad
Common Value: $2-$5 per espresso, $7-$16 per predominant
Web site: keshkeshroastery.com
15. CJ’s Restaurant (Finest for Milkshakes and Smoothies)
CJ’s Restaurant on Koinange Road is one other of my high picks for the perfect cafes in Nairobi. Though it will possibly turn out to be a bit crowded within the evenings, the ethereal house, lovely lighting, and comfy seats make it a nice expertise. I really like their inside design, which is beautiful and genuinely inviting.
Along with nice meals and occasional, they serve probably the most extremely candy plantains, and their milkshakes and smoothies are the perfect on the town. The pleasant waitstaff supplies glorious customer support, guiding you thru their intensive menu. The costs are affordable for the standard you obtain, making it an ideal alternative for dates, household outings, or enterprise conferences.
Whereas CJ’s has a number of places throughout town, the Koinange Road department holds a particular place in my coronary heart. Their intensive menu provides all the pieces from breakfast to decadent desserts, and I extremely advocate attempting their traditional tropical milkshakes, home espresso, and pepper steak combo.
CJ’s Restaurant Data
Deal with: Along Koinange Street, Nairobi City Center
Cellphone: +254 800 720 003
Working Hours: 6:30 am-11 pm (Sunday-Thursday), 6:30 am to midnight (Friday-Saturday)
Should-Attempt Objects: Home espresso, milkshakes, pepper steak. Click here to view the full menu.
Common Value: $2-$4 per latte, $10-$18 per predominant, $3-$7 for desserts
Web site: cjs.co.ke
Espresso Excursions in Nairobi
If you happen to’re a espresso lover or just curious concerning the magic behind the right cup, listed below are just a few coffee-related excursions in Nairobi that you just may discover engaging:
Nairobi Espresso Farm and Manufacturing facility Tour
With this guided tour, you’ll go to Fairview Coffee Estate and immerse your self in Kenyan espresso making. You’ll see the espresso shrubs and study each step of the method; from planting and selecting to roasting and brewing.
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Espresso Farm Tour Close to Nairobi
On this behind-the-scenes guided tour, you’ll acquire an insider’s perspective on Kenya’s vibrant espresso business. You’ll have the possibility to discover a working espresso farm simply exterior Nairobi and witness the entire journey of crafting Kenyan espresso, from the farm to your cup. You’ll uncover the expansion of espresso bushes and even get to roast your individual beans.
Kiambethu Tea Farm Tour
Espresso and tea rising in Kenya go hand-in-hand. Join this tour to expertise the tea rising and selecting course of. You’ll be taken to Kiambethu Tea Farm, the place you’ll obtain an expert-led tour of the plantation. Throughout this time, you’ll study, soak up lovely views of the highlands, and later chill out as you take pleasure in a improbable cup of Kenyan tea.
Nairobi Cafes and Espresso Retailers FAQs
Listed below are some solutions to widespread questions on the perfect cafes in Nairobi:
Nairobi provides a various vary of cafes to fulfill varied tastes. My favorites embrace ArtCaffé, Java Home, and Ethos Natural Cafe. Every of those cafes has its distinctive appeal and menu.
Tipping is usually appreciated in Nairobi, particularly in cafes and eating places. A tip of 10%-15% of the invoice is customary to point out appreciation for good service.
For espresso lovers, Karen and Westlands are among the many finest neighborhoods to discover. They boast a vibrant cafe scene, providing a mixture of cozy and stylish spots to work, chill out, and luxuriate in espresso. Nairobi metropolis middle can also be house to many improbable espresso outlets.
Completely! In Nairobi, you’ll discover among the world’s best coffee beans sourced from the Kenyan highlands. This espresso is understood for its floral and fruity notes, making it a must-try for espresso lovers.
On common, a cup of espresso in Nairobi ranges from $2-$6. This is determined by the place you go and the kind of espresso you order. Specialty coffees may be on the upper finish of that vary.
Sure, espresso is kind of widespread in Nairobi. Many locals and expats take pleasure in hanging out for cup of espresso, and also you’ll discover cafes stuffed with prospects all through the day.
Java Home and ArtCaffé are sometimes thought-about among the finest espresso store chains in Kenya. They’ve many places in Nairobi and supply quite a lot of espresso blends and scrumptious pastries.
To Summarize
As you’ll be able to see, Nairobi cafes have one thing for each espresso lover, providing quite a lot of selections. From the relaxed setting of Java Home to the comfortable ambiance at ArtCaffé and flavorful delights at Cafe Deli, town’s espresso tradition is a superb expertise.
As a espresso fanatic who has visited many of the finest cafes in Nairobi, I encourage you to discover the wealthy world of espresso on this exceptional metropolis. Numerous spots await to welcome you with open arms and a freshly brewed cup of perfection.
No matter whether or not you’re an area or a vacationer, take the possibility to embark on this caffeinated journey. Treasure each sip, share your favorites with buddies, and carry some beans house to brew and savor at your leisure.
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